PEDRO ARTS

Gettin Sentimental

2012-02-10T02:44:00.000-05:00

untitled

9"X17"

acrylic on wooden hearts

This year I was invited to participate in Jinxed Philly's fifth annual Heart Show. Definitely the biggest Valentines day art show in the city, and pretty much a tradition at this point. Also the first time in about five years I will have art at Jinxed. Special shout out to Mikey Supermodel for the invite. There should be close to fifty hearts there, all priced under or around a hundred dollars.

JINXED

Since I was already in a Mammoth painting mind frame from the last painting I just kept the groove goin into this. I really liked the idea of two Mammoths greeting each other. I never have done a painting where the main subjects are making physical contact. Can you guess which one is the fella?

This was a nice change cause I really never do anything pleasant, most of my paintings are pretty depressing to tell you the truth. I could have easily went the other way on this, which I know some people in the show are gonna. The "everybody I have ever loved grabbed my heart and tore it out route." Is Valentines Day a bummer every year? Fuck Yeah, but I keep it moving on. Time Forgets. I would never want my paintings to reflect any type of hatred. I am very lucky. There's people out there with nobody thats really all alone, and one thing I can say is I am never alone. I have a family who supports me and friends who have my back whenever I need them and thats love right there.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

Elmwood Park Zoo

2012-02-10T01:34:00.000-05:00

I took a little drawing field trip with my friend Antonia today to the Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown, PA. I had only been there once before with work to do some renovations on their pony track, so I really have never had a good chance to look around.

We had the entire place to ourselves, there was not one other visitor! I had a real good chance to chill out, relax and draw. All the animals were out and very interested in what I was doing. As you can see with this female Bighorn Sheep below.

Elmwood Park is home to many of my favorite N American animals such as Wolves, Bighorn Sheep, Elk, Bison, Eagles, Hawks, Foxes, Antelope and Mountain Lions. I wish I had taken more pictures but I was too excited to draw these guys.

stare down

I had never been this close to an elk before, they are so massive up close. There were three females and one bull. I was praying he would bugle but no such luck. I had met a really nice zoo keeper, and I got to talk with her about one of my favorite subjects (antlers) for nearly a half hour!

I met an old medicine man that lived in this teepee, he sang the old songs of his peoples and transported me to the animal spirit world. I may have been in there for days.

big bull bison

Prong Horn Antelope. N Americas fastest land animal. You couldn't tell though all this dude wanted to do was sit down.

FLICKR

2012-02-10T00:38:00.001-05:00

anthony pedro's photostream on Flickr.

Destined to Burn

2012-01-26T00:30:00.001-05:00

New Prints for the Artificial Dissemination 2 show Dissent on Paper. Opening Reception Friday January 27th 6-10PM @Phantom Hand 604 South Street, Philadelphia, PA. (See EVENTS page for more details on shows)

"The second installment of Artificial Dissemination; Propaganda to Popaganda is an exhibition devoted to Propaganda Posters. Last year Masthead Print Studio hosted the first Artificial Dissemination: Dissent on Paper; If in an alternate universe a band of scruffy, beer-swilling artists were the resistance, fighting the tyrant regime of Kindle, Septa, and Homophobes, Artificial Dissemination would have been a fair cross-section of the posters wheat-pasted all over their city.The social commentary in poster-form ranged from warnings about the pitfalls of witchcraft, retaining imagination, and the true nature of religion, to local jabs and the bizarre. This coming January, the rules are the same: subjects will range from political/social issues to jabs at celebrity and pop culture."

A new linoleum cut printed on some swanky two dollar a sheet paper. The text "Follow The Goat," comes from my tumblr site of the same name. Printed with oil based black ink, on a printing press with a great amount of help from my friend Julianna Lose, a very talented local print maker.

PROCESS SHOTS

After the Ice

2012-01-25T23:31:00.000-05:00

A new piece for Paradigm Gallery+Studio's "Confidence Is Not A Four-Letter Word" show premiering January 27th - February 18th 2012.

"It is a common theme for artists to never be fully satisfied with their work. Even if we find ourselves feeling confident, we do not want to appear arrogant, so we go through the game of being overly humble when receiving compliments and sometimes even cut up our own work. As part of this group exhibition of exclusively University of the Arts Alumni, all artists have submitted a piece that, with confidence, each can say, "I am proud of this."

I am really grateful to be included in this show, Paradigm is always really excited and enthusiastic to work with me and present my work in their gallery. I really put a lot of effort and thought into this new painting. Since this is an alumni show it's important I am able to show my growth over the past years since school. Especially coming from a department that didn't have much faith in me, and even rejected me from their own alumni show at one point. Im also grateful to be featured among many talented artist friends of mine, I've been lucky enough to work with many times over the years. Especially Alex Eckman-Lawn, jen Gin, Mike Wohlberg, and Steve Streisguth.

Next to each piece, participating artists were asked to include a mini statement that could be placed in a 4"X6" inch frame to accompany the artwork. I wont bother to explain what/who I had in mind while I made this, I will let the scanned hand written statement talk for me.

Nothing Lives Long Except the Earth and the Mountains

11"14"

acrylic on panel

detail

artist statement

(below) A toy Mammoth I have had since I was young kid. This little plastic guy has been with me for as far back as I can remember. Its still amazes me how the things of your childhood affect you as an adult. I included him in the painting, in the background, marching into an uncertain future.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-28T22:04:00.000-05:00

Nothing much to talk about with this one. I hope every one had an excellent Christmas and holiday season. This was something that was just supposed to be quick and fun. I feel good going into the new year and you should look for something BIG coming up next, thats all I'm saying.

2011 Christmas Card

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

Collage is the Art Form of the 21st Century

2011-12-23T03:25:00.000-05:00

I made this Christmas card for my friend and brilliant illustrator/sculptor Heather Gargon. She was bragging the other day that she had made me a pretty excellent Christmas card, that it was even 3D. She told me/threatened me that I better be prepared with one for her as well. Now not just anyone gets a card from me, I can think of maybe two other people who ever got a hand made card from me. I think this one came out so good I had to share it on here.

My roommates are really into collage and design and I think a bit of it has been rubbing of me, I would like to do some more of these and see what happens. Just sit there with a big stack of magazines, cut out and move around shapes. Its pretty relaxing.

front

inside

An Unyielding Land

2011-12-21T00:02:00.000-05:00

"Another Winter"

acrylic on panel

10"X20"

I imagined the cold north woods. In hunger and desperation a fox attempts an ambush. The crows, too fast, laugh as they flap upwards to the safety of the pine trees.

I hope everything turns out well for the fox. The winter months are tough on everybody. Especially if you are on your own.

detail

This was a commission for a friend of mine. He wanted to give it to his parents as a Christmas gift. My only instructions was a "fox chasing crows". I don't remember if he told me to make it a winter scene or not. I would like to think it was my idea. Maybe its an ode to Winslow Homer's painting The Fox Hunt. Sam is a brilliant illustrator himself and could easily have done something better, this will be the third year in a row he has asked me to make something for him and I am eternally grateful. You can see some of Sam's illustrations here. His parents like to display these in their summer home in Cape May, NJ. Every time I go there its like a little museum of my old work, there is at least one in every room.

Here's a few I dug up.

2008-http://www.anthonypedro.net/2008/12/sam-and-grandmother-portrait.html

2009-http://www.anthonypedro.net/2009/12/albatross_11.html

2008-http://www.anthonypedro.net/2008/07/lighthouse-for-mama-hiemer.html

Lastly, above is a crow call I've had for many years. I made many crow noises while making this picture.

Phantom Hand!

2011-12-13T19:02:00.001-05:00

604 SOUTH STREET|PHILADELPHIA PA|19147

So if you haven't heard yet a couple friends and I have been granted a gallery space on South Street, Philadelphia for a few months. The space will be called PHANTOM HAND and our first show will be PCS PRESENTS - OUT TO DRY 3: A SKETCHBOOK SHOW premiering Dec 3 through January 2012. I will post times when I get them on the EVENTS PAGE From then on we will be open weekly until April. Being the unemployed lowlife I am I will be there hanging out a lot, so come hang out with me or just stop in and see what we have for sale and say what's up and kick it for a little bit.

THE BOYS. SAM HEIMER, JAMES HEIMER, ALEX ECKMAN-LAWN, EAMON DOUGHERTY, JEFF KILLPATRICK

The space was generously provided to us by Arts on South.

Arts on South (AoS) is the innovative program that loans unrented retail stores to local groups to showcase their artwork and invigorate the community.

Featuring artist collectives and community groups that work in a variety of media, these gallery sites brighten the South Street area with creative energy. Check out our blog and facebook page for updates on the exhibitions

All galleries are open from Wednesday - Sunday from 3:00 - 7:00 PM*

*Galleries are required to be open at these times but may be open as much as they wish.

All galleries offer professional exhibitions and public receptions on the Fourth Fridays of each month. Managed by Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, in collaboration with the South Street Headhouse District, the current Arts on South participants will occupy four retail spaces from December 15, 2011 through April 15, 2012.
If you are interested in participating in the next round of AoS, check out the guidelines and application on thislink. Applications for Round 8 (April 15-August 15, 2012) are due on March 15th, 2012.

To see our most recent press release, please click here.

Please email Arts on South Coordinator, Amanda Cameron, with any questions about the Arts on South program.

Wooden Ships Return to the Sea

2011-12-09T00:56:00.001-05:00

I just recently started volunteering for the Philadelphia Ship Preservation Guild helping do repairs on the Gazela a Barkentine sailing ship docked at Penns Landing, Philadelphia. So far I've helped batten a cover over the deck for winter repairs and mostly sanding, scraping, sanding, scraping and more sanding the yards and gaffs. After completing fifty hours of volunteer work you are free to sail on the ship whenever they leave port. The people I've met so far have been really helpful so far repeating the names of everything over and over again for me. There is so much to learn. Another perk is you are given maritime skills classes.

The Gazela was built in 1883 in Portugal. She spent 65 years in the North Atlantic fishing trade. Its white paint during wartime was its protection indicating it was a neutral civilian vessel. The collapse of the fishing economy in 69' left her with no future. A philanthropist named William Wikoff Smith brought her tp Philadelphia in 1971. A wooden ship cannot sit at rest docked, The Philadelphia Ship Preservation Guild assumed ownership and management. The Gazela now sails to ports from New Orleans, Newfoundland, Canada and the Caribbean. She was also featured in the film Interview with a Vampire.

The Guild also maintains the tug Jupiter (which i have not been on board yet). It was built in Philadelphia in 1902 and tended to by a group of tug boat enthusiasts.

pictures of Gazela from the Guild's Flickr Set

for more information or to volunteer see www.gazela.org

Philadelphia Ship Preservation Guild

301 S Columbus Blvd 2nd fl

Philadelphia, PA 19106-4328

tel:215.238.0280 office@gazela.org

Some of my pictures, many more to follow as things progress.

on deck

covered up for winter repairs

masts

Waves and Tides

2011-12-09T00:03:00.001-05:00

This was a commission for a man who wanted a portrait of his father fishing. He wanted something dramatic and he had mentioned the story Old Man and the Sea. He wanted his father (on left) catching a dorado and his friend in there with him. I only had one reference photo to work from though which was going to make things pretty difficult. I had to pretty much invent the scene they were in and was limited by the photo. I think I did the best I could do with what I was given. He likes it so thats all thats really important, and I hope his father enjoys it too. It always makes me feel good when people want to give my paintings for gifts.

untitled

11"X14"

acrylic on panel

lone reference photo

notes*

I made the dorado larger then one would really grow to (5ft) on purpose for the pictures sake and to add some drama. Im not to proud of my sky here, I think it looks too heavy, not loose and airy enough. It also really annoys me that the one cloud is super bright then it hits the fish and gets darker for the other half of the picture. I often wonder if these are just things I notice that get me frustrated or they're noticeable to other viewers as well. My favorite part of this whole picture to paint was the guy on the lefts red hat.

From Swords to Plows

2011-11-27T23:36:00.001-05:00

"Where ever he has left his footprint in the long ascent from barbarism to civilization we will find the hoof print of the horse behind it."

"Lucky"

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

The four dominant breeds of Draft Horses are the Percheron, Suffolk, Belgian and the Clydesdale. They are all descendants of the Flemish Horse.

They can weigh up to a ton or more, twice the weight of a Thoroughbred race horse and in some instances 20 hands high. Today they are mostly known as tillers of fields but they are really a by-product of war.

After the fall of the Roman Empire war became an affair for mounted soldiers who needed larger horses to carry the weight of the increasingly heavy armor. Some plated armor could weigh nearly 400 lbs.

In the year 1310 the weekly cost of keeping one of these animals could support four or five poor people. Henry the VIII of England passed laws to do away with smaller horses. They started to replace to Ox. They were not only being bred for battle but for farm work as well.

-Treasury of Horses, Walter D. Osbourne and Patricia H. Johnson, A Ridge Press Book/Golden Press

Notes*

To be honest I don't know exactly what breed Lucky is. I have been told he is a Percheron, a breed from France. His size matches up, but Percherons are known for their smaller heads and Lucky's head is huge. He is most likely mixed with something.

I've worked with Lucky at the zoo and he is really a beautiful and strong horse. When you stand next to him you almost feel like your in another time. I like to imagine the armies of old marching across fields with hundreds of these guys, you could probably feel the earth shake under your feet.

One of the reasons I wanted to paint him is because I have never painted an all white animal before. I used the lighting in the reference I took because 1/4 of his body is in shadow and there is a lot of nice blues and purples.

Villager of the East

2011-11-26T00:21:00.001-05:00

I shall vanish and be no more,

But the land over which I now roam

Shall remain

And change not -Omaha

Eastern Shore of Virginia

Wild ponies of Assateague Island

The wild Chincoteague Ponies were most likely horses that got loose from early settlers to the area, not the romanticized survivors of shipwrecks. Their small size could be attributed to the sparse vegetation of the islands which stunted their size. Over the years Arabian blood has been introduced to the breed. The ones I saw were mostly Chestnut and Pinto.

It makes sense cactus live here. Sometimes temperatures can reach 115 degrees.

I love coming across a den. I wonder who lives here? A fox?

research

new acquisition

A possible deer bed?

New York

I love being alone and reflecting in the chilly gloom and quiet of the New York Wilderness in the Fall. The woods seem to belong to you, even the birds refuse to show themselves except for the few turkey vultures that drift overhead. The slightest disturbance in the leaves heightens your senses sending you into a primitive state of alert.

former employer

These are long forgotten WWI training facilities. There are rumors of everything from murder, satanic worship by a group called the Omega Men, and ghosts that haunt this area.

Appaloosa: Spotted Horse of the West

2011-11-25T21:16:00.001-05:00

"A hibernian sage once wrote that there are three things a man never forgets: The girl of his early youth, a devoted teacher and a great horse."
-C.J.J. Mullen

"There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man."
-Winston Churchill

Indian Pony

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

In the year 1877, after an attempted flight to Canada Chief Joseph and a handful of Nez Perce surrendered from their mountain stronghold to the U.S. Army. For centuries the mountains of North Western America protected them from the fierce warriors of the Blackfeet.

They had 1,100 of their spotted horses which are today called Appaloosas after the Palouse River that runs through the traditional lands of the Nez Perce. The horses they surrendered were sold off to the east. Many were corralled by white settlers while some escaped in wild herds. Nine hundred drowned while crossing the flooded canyon of the Snake River.

The breed managed to survive through its popularity in Wild West Shows and circuses. Even so by the 1930's the breed bordered on extinction. In 1938 thanks to the efforts of Claude Thompson of Oregon, The Appaloosa Horse Club was founded and the Appaloosa has rebounded and is now one of the most popular breeds in N. America.

There has been representations os spotted horses as early as 500 B.C. in Chinese Art. Many were even depicted in Cave Drawings. Most famously at Lascaux in France. Spotted Horses arrived in the New World with the Spanish in the 17th century and were obtained by indians by either theft or trade.

Eight basic coat patterns of Appaloosas are

1. Spotted Blanket (pictured)- dark head with white blanket over loin and quarters with spots.
2.White Blanket - dark head with white blanket over loin and quarters without spots.
3.Leopard - pure white base with evenly distributed spots over entire body.
4.Near Leopard - leopard markings at birth but these fade as the horse ages.
5.Marble - dark base color, which fades with maturity, with "varnish" marks on face and legs.
6.Few Spot - basically leopard with just a few odd spots, but some roan (blue or red) marks.
7.Frosted Tip - dark base color with either frost or white spots on loin and quarters.
8.Snowflake - base color is dark with white spots, which often appear later.

-Treasury of Horses, Walter D. Osbourne and Patricia H. Johnson, A Ridge Press Book/Golden Press
-The Horse Companion, Jane Holderness-Roddam, Barron's Publishing

*Personal Notes
I painted this from reference I took at the St Louis Arch's Museum of Westward Expansion. Ever since I was a young boy I've had a fascination with Indians and the animals they rode. Mostly thanks to my aunt Roberta (Appaloosas are her favorite horse as well) and the book War Paint, I discovered in my grandmothers basement as a young child. Over Twenty years later I still turn its old yellowed pages for inspiration.

Gather Around the Cauldron

2011-11-03T19:57:00.000-04:00

The other day Paradigm Gallery and Studio gave me and George a shout out in their email newsletter. That was really cool of them. Jason and Sara, the owners, have been really cool to me ever since I met them when I put together The Age of Reptiles show last spring. Once you work with them you are like family. Every Paradigm opening and closing is a warm reception of old and new friends, family and passer-byers anxious to see artwork by Philly artisans, talk and enjoy a beer. You already know Nose-Go will be dropping by. I hopefully will be collaborating with them and my boy Ryan Resch out in Denver in the coming months.

I have a few friends in their new show up this month. Height x Width x Depth premiers October 28th-November 19th.

Paradigm Gallery + Studio Presents: Height x Width x Depth

A Group Show of Artists Exploring Shadow Boxes, Dimension and Light

October 28th - November 19th

And last but not least, a late Happy Halloween.

An Intro to Cthulhu

2011-11-02T20:43:00.000-04:00

Last month I was able to participate in a group show at Paradigm Gallery titled Dead and Dreaming (see the events page for a list of artists and more details). The show was curated by my good friend and Lovecraft aficionado Samuel Heimer (he's been telling me to read At The Mountains of Madness for 7 years now, since i met him).

As predicted the show was a great success, I have never seen more red dots. Art and Lovecraft fans alike arrived in mass to gaze upon the doom covered walls.

One of the biggest surprises came after the show when a writer for the adultswim.com blog, Jason Islas chose to do an introduction to H.P. Lovecraft piece calling it An Intro to Cthulhu. Islas gives brief descriptions of some of the more well known Lovecraft works while weaving in artwork from the show as well as bits of interviews from the artists themselves. Although I wasn't interviewed, my piece Arthur Jermyn appears as the first image in the slideshow.

See for yourself here.

Also if you missed the show you can see most of the work and what's for sale at Paradigm's web store.

Offshore Offering

2011-10-12T22:40:00.002-04:00

The dolphinfish is also known as the dolphin, dorado. Its flesh is sold under its Hawaiian name Mahi Mahi. It can grow up about 88 lbs. It eats fish (mainly flying fish) squid and crustaceans. They often can be found around floating debris or patches of seaweed which may harbor potential prey. It is known to put up a tremendous fight when caught. Making fast powerful runs, leaping and tail walking over the surface. The dolphinfish is extremely beautiful with its vivid blue, green and yellow coloration. They can be found in Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans: tropical and warm waters.

Dorado

12"X12"

acrylic on panel

Detail 1

Under painting

You can see by the under painting this started out as more of a sports fishing piece, where the dolphinfsh is leaping from the water hooked on a plug. About half way through I became a little conflicted about the way I wanted this animal to be portrayed. I didn't want a hook in its mouth taking any focus away. I hate being reminded of humans. So for a moment I wanted to think of looking out on the ocean and seeing this powerful fish burst above the waves, float there for an instant for me to see, and then disappear below again to go about its business.

As males grow older their foreheads become increasingly steep, almost vertical, and may grow larger then females. The heads of female dolphinfish and the young of both sexes, are more rounded, otherwise males and females look alike. I did a little drawing below to illustrate the difference.

-Macmillan Illustrated Animal Encyclopedia, Dr Philip Whitfield
-The Dorling Kindersley Encyclopedia of Fishing

Some Reference Photos Through the Years

2011-09-27T23:22:00.000-04:00

Too broke and lazy for models? No friends? You gotta do what you gotta do sometimes. Don't judge me. I don't ever want to hear I ripped off someone else's figure. Swiffer's make good spears and rulers make good bows. Extra credit if you can match a pose to a painting.

Pteranodon: Final Resting Place

2011-09-22T22:54:00.000-04:00

A few months ago my friend George and I built a pteranodon for the show The Age of Reptiles at Paradigm Gallery in Philadelphia which was curated by myself in collaboration with The Autumn Society of Philadelphia. The winged lizard hung from the ceiling while gallery visitors browsed the walls of Dinosaur themed artwork.

Unfortunately the month of the show came and went while our Pteranadon remained unsold. We brought him back to George's basement, the place of its birth. We decided it was best to place him up for bid on ebay. Due to the odd shape of it, shipping fees would be astronomical. A one thousand dollar shipping tag would be enough to deter any potential buyer. We decided it would be best to include delivery and installation in the final price.

Half the country away in Belleville, Illinois, the superintendent of schools was searching online for a small scale Pteranadon for display in his office. A former science teacher he has had a life long passion for dinosaurs. He came across ours on ebay and was blown away, he knew he had to have it. He told us "I knew it wouldn't fit in my office but I had the perfect place for it." The perfect place was the library of the newly constructed school which would house grades kindergarten through eighth. I was told the new school was constructed to replace former buildings in the area which were sinking into the ground due to the undermining caused by old coal mines throughout the area. One building actually sunk eighteen inches in a year. The new building looks similar to a college campus in size.

When we rolled up I couldn't believe it, the whole fifteen hour ride there I had imagined an installation in an already existing sleepy little library somewhere. I didn't picture a construction site a thirty foot tall ceiling, hard hats and scissor lifts. I thought we were in over our heads literally. Man, thank god George knew what he was doing and came prepared. Really this was his baby from the start, i honestly contributed to about ten percent of this thing and he deserves every bit of credit. The superintendent and head architect really kept looking at me like I knew what I was doing. I would just put on a thoughtful looking face, nod my head up and down and then look at George.

OK, so here was the plan. After removing it from its custom made coffin, we would have to do some touch up work, a little painting and epoxy some fingers back on. We would only have a half an hour for use of the scissor lifts while the electricians had lunch. They were installing strip lights and would need em' both to install the long lights. We would have to work to fast. After touch ups and consulting about placement we attached the cable wire at the five points, we were ready to rock. We would have to attach the cables to the steel above the drop ceiling, because the grid holding the tiles would most likely begin to bow over time. I had been a laborer at construction sites, drove lifts before so this stuff was nothing new to me, it was just a little nerve racking with such little time, and every body watching us. But really the thing went up without a hitch.

It was a great feeling seeing it up there, and hearing the librarians and school big shots discussing how they were get the children involved using it as an educational tool. Naming him, having information on the wall about them and that sorta thing. The most exciting part I think is that it did wind up in a school or a public place instead of somewhere private. At least now new generations will be able to enjoy it and I know our hard work has found a safe place to rest where it will be appreciated. We are promised pictures of the library when its completed, so hopefully I will be able to share those soon.

As always I had a blast on the road with my friend, seeing new places and meeting new people. This is really what its about for me. Along the way we stopped in St Louis and went to the top of the arch and saw the mighty Mississippi. We shot up north to Chi Town for a few hours and went to the top of the Sears Tower and checked out Millennium Park. Chicago was an amazing city with just so much to look at. Tons of public artworks and some of the most awe inspiring skyscrapers and skyline rivaling NYC. I look forward to going back some day.

Hopefully will have a few new paintings to put up soon. Until next time.

Dead and Dreaming

2011-08-30T00:41:00.000-04:00

"Life is a Hideous Thing" or (Facts Concerning the Late Arthur Jermyn and His Family)

11"14"

acrylic on panel

detail

thumbnail

Here is an illustration for the upcoming group show "Dead and Dreaming" an H.P. Lovecraft themed group show at Philadelphia's own Paradigm Gallery running through October. The show is curated by Lovecraft fan and brilliant illustrator of the macabre Sam Heimer. Each artist was asked to illustrate a Lovecraft tale. I was assigned Arthur Jermyn. I have been meaning to read a bit of Lovecraft for ages, and was not let down. The story was filled with darkness and doom. You can read it here. After reading my mind was filled with potential images to depict. I had worked with thumbnails a few days and finally decided to go with a tight head shot of the stories beastly climax. When in doubt go with a head shot.

dislikes: The arm closest to us looks shitty. Im not 100% it looks as well as the arm behind it. My excuse? Time was up for the digital deadline. It was the last part I had worked on and rushed it. I had already been granted a time extension. I don't think it will be to noticeable once framed, I've been getting good feedback so far, so well see.

Bluegill

2011-08-29T22:52:00.005-04:00

Bluegill

5"X7"
acrylic on panel

This is just a small painting I had laying about, that I never posted. Its a Bluegill. These little guys have a special place in a lot of peoples hearts. Besides tasting pretty good, they are usually one of the first and easiest species of fish little kids catch. I know it was mine. These guys really start people fishing which is very important. They are colored very beautifully with browns, golds, reds, blues, and greens.

dislikes: I feel like the fins look too stiff. They don't convince me they are waving about in the water. I think this would work best in a science book or some thing. I usually try to stay away from profiles of things. I guess I was feeling lazy and since it was such a small painting I really didn't care.

Small relatives of the black bass and are among the most popular American panfish, which are too small to be considered true gamefish but still provide considerable angling (and eating) pleasure. The range of each of these species has been considerably extended by widespread stocking programs.

Bluegills are the most widely distributed panfish, and probably the most fished-for species in North America. It prefers quiet, weedy waters and averages about 4oz (113g), although it can grow to over 4lb (1.8) kg.

-The DK Encyclopedia of Fishing

A whir of mighty wings! A sudden rush through the sky.

2011-08-12T23:15:00.002-04:00

Painting for Drawn to Letters a show at Brave New Worlds comics throughout the month of August. The show is put together by Christian Patchell and the Philadelphia Cartoonist Society. Each artist received a letter of the alphabet to illustrate and interpret how they saw feet. I was givin the letter Q.

Dislikes: The Arm thats furthest away from us looks weird, also doesn't convince me there's air flowing under and over those wings. One of the drawbacks of acrylic is things always look stiff. Ill figure it out one day.

Quetzalcoatlus

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

detail of head

Named after an Aztec god, Quetzalcoatlus may have been the largest flying animal that ever existed. Unlike most pterosaurs it probably lived inland and flew by soaring. It had a toothless beak and is believed to have been a scavenger.

-The Kingfisher Illustrated Dinosaur Encyclopedia

These people practice witchcraft, they are not what they seem.

2011-08-12T22:03:00.001-04:00

Here is a linoleum block print I made for the Artificial Dissemination show, an exhibition that was dedicated to the art of the propaganda poster. Only (non-digital) prints were allowed so I had to really get in my bag with a technique I haven't used in a while. The last time I made a print was a few years ago, and this time around I did not have the luxury of a Chandler and Price press. I carved the block and used water based black Speedball block printing ink. I started over three times. The first version of this had a pentagram under the type, but I did not have the right tools to get in all the details. The second screw up came when I carved the whole thing reading from left to right instead of backwards so when printed it would read correctly. The phrase comes from the title of an occult rock album by the band Coven.

Witchcraft Destroys Minds and Reaps Souls

8"X10" linoleum block print on paper

original carving

"In Christianity, witchcraft became interpreted as serving the Devil in his plan to subvert and destroy souls. A witch hysteria mounted in Europe, Britain and even the American colonies and was seized upon by the church as a way of eliminating rival religious sects, political enemies and social outcasts. From the 14th to 18th centuries, thousands of people - perhaps hundreds of thousands - were tortured, jailed, maimed and executed on charges of witchcraft. Many of them were innocent, framed by personnel enemies or tortured into confessions."

-The Encyclopedia of Witches Witchcraft and Wicca third edition Rosemary Ellen Guiley

Above the Clouds

2011-07-03T23:23:00.000-04:00

Piece for the Rockets, Robots, and Ray Guns show premiering at Jinxed/Toothless Cat Gallery. See Events page for more information.

Voyager

11"X14"

acrylic on panel

detail

Staring Death in the Eye

2011-06-19T23:59:00.001-04:00

With round eyes, blunt head and massive jaws the Tiger Shark is considered the second most deadly shark in the sea next to the Great White. It is often found in shallow water and is known to eat anything. During daylight they can be found in deep water, but late afternoon they cruise into the shallows. That is when attacks on humans occur. They mostly feed on crabs, squid, fish, turtles, dolphins, and smaller sharks. They have been found with cans, shoes, copper wire, and even one was recorded to have a bottle of wine in its stomach! The Tiger Shark gets its name from the tiger like brown stripes found on the backs of younger sharks, they dull with age. They can grow up to fifteen or eighteen feet in length weighing up to two thousand pounds.

Shallow Tiger

11"X14"
acrylic on panel

Shallow Tiger detail

"The Clouds of Winter, Dark and Fearsome." - My Side of the Mountain

2011-03-24T18:10:00.001-04:00

"No Regrets on New Years Day"

acrylic on panel
8"X10"

detail

This New Years i was in Cape May, New Jersey. On New Years Day me and my friends Sam, Ryan and his girl wound up on a weird beach that was littered with these ice drifts along the beach. When we got there I saw a flock of Snow Geese taking off. The sands were strewn with Horse Shoe Crab shells, and bones of fish. There was a long breaker that jetted out to sea. It felt like standing at the edge of the earth. Big dark clouds were moving in from off shore.

For this picture I originally wanted to just try to recreate the sky the day. That proved to be pretty difficult. It might be impossible actually to just paint a sky with no indication of land below it or something within it. With nothing to keep the sky back it just keeps getting built up until you cant even tell what it is. It looses all of its light and airy qualities.

Washed in the Blood of the Lamb

2011-02-28T02:30:00.000-05:00

Crown of Horns (Bighorn Sheep)

11"X14"

acrylic on panel

Epoch: The Birth of a Pteranodon

2011-02-24T15:26:00.005-05:00

The past couple of weeks in the chill of a basement in W Philly, George Armenante, had been quietly constructing the skeleton of long extinct flying reptile. Using wood, foam and plaster, it began to take shape.

I had approached George with the idea a few months ago after a meeting with the Paradigm Gallery staff, in the planning stages of The Age of Reptile show. Jason and Sara Paradigm were very enthusiastic listening to our ideas about transforming their gallery space on South Street. Measurements were taken, materials were gathered, skeletons were researched and drawn, card board maquette's were taped together and held up to ceilings, and anchors set.

Three days ago I joined up with George and set to work, shaping the head, cutting wing shapes, carving fingers, and painting. There was no budget for this, not a lot of time, and many design challenges. We ate nothing but pasta and budget cereal (Frosted Mini Spooners). I slept on the couch. There was glue gun burns, large quantities of tea and classic rock, frozen fingers from working on it outside and power naps that lasted too long. Paint and plaster shortages plauged us, change was collected, George's drapes were sacrificed for wing membranes, two foosball players unselfishly gave their heads for eyes. The pox were wished upon ex girlfriends and dreams of a wealthy dino-enthusiast buying the "dactyl" were discussed. The end result is 12ft wide weighing in at about 40 lbs.

We finished 2 hrs before our deadline, and had time to watch half of Conan the Barbarian.

I would like to thank George Armenante for his insights, knowledge, planning, dedication, direction, friendship and hospitality throughout this endeavor. Also Paradigm Gallery+Studio for being supportive and going along with this project. I wouldn't give up experiences like this for any thing.

I Dont Forget the Past and Never Regret Yesterday

2011-02-20T23:34:00.002-05:00

My main piece for "the Age of Reptiles" show coming up this Friday at Paradigm Gallery. here

This picture shows a Thalassomedon feeding on fish in the Cretaceous Sea while Ancient Ammonites drift by. The Thalassomedon is a type of plesiosaur, that had a 20ft long neck. Scientists think it may have used this long neck as stealth to sneak its way into schools of fish while its body could remain hidden below. They also think it may have fed like a crocodile or alligator thrashing its head from side to side.

Ammonites are one of the best ways scientists can date the ancient seas. Their shells were easily fossilized, and flourished through out the age of Dinosaurs. They grew pretty big sometimes with shells 3ft across. They looked like squid with a beak for eating other cephalopods.

"The Past is a Wilderness of Horror"

10"X20"

acrylic on panel

Detail - Ammonites adrift

detail - Thalassomedon chasing a school of unknown fish

Nocturnal Offering

2011-02-10T00:52:00.000-05:00

A picture I have had floating around in my skull for a while. Originally I had givin these to my friend Phil for his birthday a few months ago. Before I presented them to him I wanted to get this painting in, but his birthday came and I had to give these away. I told him about the painting I wanted to do with these and he wound up loaning them to me. These are so great and gnarly, they have so much personality. They are real Turkey feet injected with a type of epoxy, that taxidermists use. It prevents the feet and wings of birds from loosing form while drying out. It can also be used on small mammal toes.

Let Us Pray

acrylic on panel

8"X10"

Among the Clouds

2011-02-05T13:50:00.001-05:00

Here's a promotional piece I did for a show I'm putting together at Paradigm Gallery. The show is called "The Age of Reptiles" which will premier February 25th. Look for all the info on my event page within the next couple of days.

This picture depicts an Ultrasaurus and a pair of Pteranodon Ingens.

"Lizard Beyond Others"

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

detail

To The Ends of the Earth

2011-01-31T23:09:00.000-05:00

Genghis Khan portrait finish for "A Nation of Evil Men" group show this week. See Events for more info, time, etc. Should be real interesting. Features unframed 8"X10" portraits of villainous humans from Hitler to Walt Disney to Mother Theresa. Curated by my bro Sam Heimer.

Son of the Blue Wolf
8"X10"
acrylic on panel

detail

The Promised Land

2011-01-26T19:52:00.001-05:00

Today Jen Gin and I braved arctic weather conditions, and headed to the Wagner Free Institute of Science, for our (hopefully) weekly drawing adventure. You could really spend all day in this place. This is the second time I've been. It is a 19th century Victorian exhibit hall, featuring rocks, minerals, fossils, mounted birds and mammals, skeletons, and shells in original cherry wood and glass cabinets from the 1800's. I snapped a few a pictures, even though photography is not allowed, just for you to get a feel of the grandness of this place. It is a dream for anyone with sketchpad in hand and a few hours. wagnerfreeinstitute

FROM MY SKETCHBOOK

Next week Penn Archeology Museum.

Seabird Legs and Sketchy Places

2011-01-18T15:07:00.000-05:00

I dont know if this is considered art or not but I mummified this Seabird Leg. I found the thing dead on the beach, snipped off its leg with a Leatherman tool, took it home and stored it in salt for a few weeks. The result is pretty rad.

Also I went drawing at the Philadelphia Zoo yesterday with my friend Jen Gin. It was so cold outside we spend most of the time in the reptile house sketching alligators, turtles, and snakes.

drawing alligators, caimen, and crocodiles.

Western Ways

2011-01-18T13:32:00.000-05:00

The Bison Lance
16"X20"
acrylic on panel

detail

Demons Prey Above Me like a Vulture

2010-12-30T18:31:00.002-05:00

I love to watch Vultures floating above the trees on wind currents. When I see a group of them together I often wonder whats dead down there.

"Eaters of the Dead"
acrylic on panel
9"X12"

detail

I've always had an affinity with ugly looking or strange animals. To me they are the most interesting, and I feel are most deserving of my affection and artistic efforts. I would rather look like a Vulture then an Eagle any day.

I have painted two "New World Vultures" here. The "Turkey Vulture" (shown top right), and the "Black Vulture" (shown bottom left).

Vultures have the weakest feet of all the Raptor family, unlike other Raptors who are able to snatch prey out of the sky, Vultures have more chicken like feet better suited for hopping along on the ground. Vultures have featherless heads for the quick drying and killing of bacteria they may have picked up from poking around in carcasses. Specialized stomachs also help digest dead flesh. These birds play an important roll in the ecosystem, they prevent the spread of disease by eating dead animals before they decay. The "Turkey Vulture" has the best nose of any bird of prey, the "Black Vulture" has developed the most specialized feet to be most sure footed on the ground.
Who knew right?
read "Eagles & Birds of Prey" by DK publishing for more information on Vultures and other members of the Raptor family.

Quick note on 2010. 2010 was an excellent year work wise, the most I've done to date, around 30 in all, so around one or two a month for a year. I look to double that next year, and so on and so on and so on. Thanks to anybody who has purchased a painting, print, came to a show, or shared a word of praise. It means more then you know.

Look for something big coming up next post for the first of 2011.

Holiday $ale

2010-12-10T19:38:00.001-05:00

Right now I have a holiday promotion/sale goin on at my ETSY shop. Just enter the code HOLLADAY at checkout and receive 15% off your purchase. Either click on the link here or the store tab on this page. I have a few prints available and plenty of original paintings that need to go.

2010-12-08T21:39:00.000-05:00

A few small Turkey paintings, inspired by the fall and of course Thanksgiving. Still one of my favorites to paint. They have the most interesting heads I've ever seen. They can even change colors when excited within seconds! The fleshy growths are called Caruncles. The growth over the beak is called a Snood, it can be extended or contracted. Males and females have both of these.

Gobbler or Tom (adult male)

5"X7"

acrylic on panel

Hen (adult female)

5"X7"

acrylic on panel

Jake (immature male)

5"X7"

acrylic on panel

Clutching the bed like shes still by my side

2010-11-16T13:36:00.001-05:00

Sometimes when a relationship dies, you cant escape the ghost of that person. Memories seem to follow and torture you everywhere you go. Your especially not safe in your own house. That's what this picture is about. Hopefully this exorcism helps me.

"The Haunted Corners of Familiar Rooms"

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

On a technical note, I'm glad I finally got around to doing an interior. It helped me soften up my edges a bit and do some things with shadows.

8 Bit Calavera

2010-10-27T00:41:00.004-04:00

New project involving Philadelphia's Autumn Society and Ground Kontrol, called 8 Bit Calavera meaning skull. Forty artists were invited to paint on Nintendo cartridges supplied by the guys at Ground Kontrol. The forty cartridges when combined will form an eight bit skull. The show will premier in November coinciding with the Mexican Day of the Dead Festival or Dia De Los Muertos.

a little about Ground Kontrol
Ground Kontrol is the West Coast’s premier classic arcade, preserving and celebrating video gaming’s “golden age” by operating over 60 classic video games and 27 pinball machines, and selling refurbished vintage home systems such as the Atari 2600, Nintendo Entertainment System and Super Nintendo. Ground Kontrol also serves beer & wine during evening hours, hosts DJs and Rock Band, and is available for public and private event rentals.
For a list of upcoming events, see our online calendar.
Ground Kontrol was founded in 1999 by two record store employees who loved classic video games. In 2003, five lifelong pinball and video game fans joined up and purchased the arcade, moving it to bigger and better digs in Portland’s historic Old Town/Chinatown neighborhood the following year.

the original NES cartridge I received before painting

with bone white background ready to hang with the others

Su Pasado (your past)

4 5/8" X 5 1/4"

acrylic on NES cartridge

The instructions were to paint skull in some form on the cartridge. I felt since Nintendo is an obsolete gaming platform I should go with an extinct animal. Australopithicus afarensis is known as the earliest known true hominid, believed to be the first relative of Homo Sapians (us). Only found on the continent of Africa 2.9 - 3.6 MYA. In keeping true to the theme of Dia de los Muertos, I felt it was fitting to honor this long gone ancestor of ours. For without its struggle for survival would we be here today? They had ape sized brains and large jaws and teeth. Due to the changing landscape of Africa, Australopithicus was forced down from the trees in search of food. They lived in social groups for protection. Scavenging meat may have sparked brain growth and set us on the long path to humanity. Only a portion of the skull is pictured on my cartridge. It is after the fossil discovered by J.T. Robinson, in Sterkfontein, South Africa in 1949. The same goes for the Nintendo Entertainment System. Would video games be where they are today with out this revolutionary system?

Pony Boy

2010-10-21T01:32:00.000-04:00

Austin is a Chincoteague Pony, he is a four year old gelding who belongs to my friend Ashley.

Austin

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

A little bit about Chincoteague Ponies from Chincoteague.com

Two herds of wild horses make their home on Assateague Island, separated by a fence at the Maryland-Virginia line, and they are often seen wandering the beaches, roadways, trails and campgrounds on the island. These small but sturdy, shaggy horses have adapted to their environment over the years by eating dune and marsh grasses and drinking fresh water from ponds. While they appear tame, they are wild, and Park Rangers urge visitors not to feed or pet them. The Maryland herd is managed by the National Park Service. The Virginia herd is owned by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company and allowed by permit to graze on the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Each year the Virginia herd is rounded up for the internationally recognized Pony Penning and Auction.

Overture

2010-09-27T23:55:00.000-04:00

As The God of War III soundtrack plays...

I added a Flickr photostream up top today. I feel it is a nice addition for viewing work. No words, no clutter, just a nice clear view of the pictures I make in one place. So far not much up there, but over time I will be posting more. I've also decided to add more details of paintings. Since most of you will never see one up close in real life, I've started to add detail shots so you can getter feel for the texture, brushwork and color that goes into these. I've also decided to add some photography on my Flickr page that I've taken and is interesting to me, I may or may not continue to post photos but the photography blood flows blue in my veins and is something I'm gonna try to do more of. The 35MM cam is out and awaiting a new battery.

I have nothing but projects I want to do coming up. I dropped a few lame things I said I was gonna do so I have time to do I what I want and be happy. I'm pretty disappointed in the last two pictures I made. I feel due to time restraints they were not up to the best of my ability, and I look to come back strong with the next and get in a solid groove again.

To last through Winter

2010-09-18T23:13:00.002-04:00

For the Hallowed Halloween show at Proximity Gallery October 1st, check events page for more details. I'm kinda pissed at the way this came out. Originally I had a few weeks planned reserved for this show, but I forgot about the Marlin Mag submission. So I wound up with a few days to do. I had this image in my head for a while, and figured I could loosely work it in. I had read in a book Prehistoric America about food reserves set up by the first peoples in America. Food was buried under stacks of rocks, sometimes adorned with bones or animal parts. There the food would be safe from scavengers. I feel like every other minute I think of something better I could have done. I guess I'll keep them stored, Halloween isn't going anywhere and I'm sure there will be more Halloween shows.


9"X12" acrylic on panel

This will be the first show where The Autumn Society and The Philadelphia Cartoonist Society team up.

2010-09-10T12:06:00.004-04:00

This years submission for Marlin Magazines Offshore Gallery. Every year artists submit artwork related to pelagic fishes, specifically billfish, tuna, mahimahi, and wahoo. I had this image in my head for almost a year and a title to go along with it. Giant Bluefin Tuna moving swiftly beneath the oceans surface. I feel it came out as I had hoped, as the picture appeared in my mind. A pretty solid composition I think, good drawing, fish seen from varying perspectives near and far, and a believable color palate. I had changed the drawing (see below), I had a large tuna head in the corner entering the picture but it felt weird to me. I felt it would have competed to much with the fish in the middle. Anyways hope they like and I wind up in the Mag. I feel like I've come a long way since the last time I was in two years ago. Unfortunately due to overfishing one day soon you may only be able to witness a scene like this in photographs and artists renditions.

Bluefin Titans

11"X14"

acrylic on panel

details

* notes about Bluefin Tuna -National Geographic website

The Atlantic bluefin tuna is one of the largest, fastest, and most gorgeously colored of all the world’s fishes. Their torpedo-shaped, streamlined bodies are built for speed and endurance. Their coloring—metallic blue on top and shimmering silver-white on the bottom—helps camouflage them from above and below. And their voracious appetite and varied diet pushes their average size to a whopping 6.5 feet (2 meters) in length and 550 pounds (250 kilograms), although much larger specimens are not uncommon.
Unfortunately for the species however, bluefin meat also happens to be regarded as surpassingly delicious, particularly among sashimi eaters, and overfishing throughout their range has driven their numbers to critically low levels.
Atlantic bluefins are warm-blooded, a rare trait among fish, and are comfortable in the cold waters off Newfoundland and Iceland, as well as the tropical waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Mediterranean Sea, where they go each year to spawn. They are among the most ambitiously migratory of all fish, and some tagged specimens have been tracked swimming from North American to European waters several times a year.
They are prized among sport fishers for their fight and speed, shooting through the water with their powerful, crescent-shaped tails up to 43 miles (70 kilometers) per hour. They can retract their dorsal and pectoral fins into slots to reduce drag. And some scientists think the series of “finlets” on their tails may even serve to reduce water turbulence.
Bluefins attain their enormous size by gorging themselves almost constantly on smaller fish, crustaceans, squid, and eels. They will also filter-feed on zooplankton and other small organisms and have even been observed eating kelp. The largest tuna ever recorded was an Atlantic bluefin caught off Nova Scotia that weighed 1,496 pounds (679 kilograms).

Bluefin tuna have been eaten by humans for centuries. However, in the 1970s, demand and prices for large bluefins soared worldwide, particularly in Japan, and commercial fishing operations found new ways to find and catch these sleek giants. As a result, bluefin stocks, especially of large, breeding-age fish, have plummeted, and international conservation efforts have led to curbs on commercial takes. Nevertheless, at least one group says illegal fishing in Europe has pushed the Atlantic bluefin populations there to the brink of extinction.

To show you how large one of these looks compared to a human I included these photograph that hangs in my living room, It came from a flea market in Virginia, so I don't know who the lucky blokes are.

Up next HALLOWEEN (2)

Domain Change

2010-09-07T12:19:00.000-04:00

This page is now located at http://www.anthonypedro.net it can still be reached through the .blogspot address, but to make it easier for new readers, less typing, and more official sounding I went ahead and changed it.

Also stop by the events page to see pics from the 3G show, Ernie Hudson (Winston) from Ghostbusters stopped by!!

Blue Fin Titans (preview)

2010-08-27T00:13:00.000-04:00

A little preview of what just got put up on the easel. Just thought you might like to see what a painting looks like before its begun, with only the drawing on panel. Check back in a few days to see the finish.

Watercolor?

2010-08-24T23:33:00.000-04:00

the past couple of nights I have been trying to develop a watercolor technique. I think I found some thing I'm happy with using a combination of pen and watercolor. I won't show the previous attempts but you'll probably see more of these in the future. Some Tuna up next.

Ladies of the 80's

2010-08-17T21:03:00.000-04:00

Andy (the Goonies)

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

Janine (Ghostbusters)

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

"Kate" (Gremlins)

8"10"

acrylic on panel

My three pieces for Gallery 1988's show 3G in collaboration with The Autumn Society of Philadelphia. My first show ever on the Left Coast. See the Event's page for more information and links.

Truth is I was asked to participate in this show last summer, and I had denied a few times, but Joe the ASOP Pres kept after me and I agreed. The deadline came up faster then I had anticipated, I had mentally stored the wrong deadline in my head, and I wound up with less then two weeks to complete. I knew I had to do something I was capable of in a short period of time and would come out alright. So I won't be getting any gold stars for creativity, but I learned a valuable lesson about deadlines, while rounding out my portfolio with some portraits of ladies a subject that appears too seldom in my pictures.

Its weird these movies and the 80's are so popular, I guess its because kids who grew up in the 80's (myself included) are the ones who are running galleries and making tee shirts and websites. It seems every where you look there is another He-Man show or 80's pop show. I'm tired of it my self, hopefully this will be my last pop show for a while, I've been getting sucked into too many of these lately, with time to paint scarce enough I have had no time for any thing I really want to do. The last thing I want is to become known for doing things well that have already been done.

Lots of good projects on deck I'm looking forward too, A few good Halloween shows, Indians, and Billfish. Also take time to explore the page from time to time you'll notice some changes for the better.

2010-08-02T23:28:00.001-04:00

"Dog of Zeus" Harpy

acrylic on panel

10"X14"

Harpies were foul bird women, found in ancient Greece on the island of Strophades. Also known as "the dogs of great Zeus," they served as tormentors of men who fell out of favor with the gods.

Piece for an upcoming book on folklore I know very little about put together by some dude, will have more information soon. All I know is its in color, I will get a lot of copies I will sell, other decent artists made illustrations for it. Other monsters include The Baba Yaga, Chupacabra , the La Llorona and others. Check back soon.

*On a side note you may have noticed a few new tabs up top, different sections for events, and photos that will all be updated within the next few days. With these it will be easier to view only work at the home page, and make the home page less congested.

Up next... 3 pieces for 3G, a show at Gallery 88 in L.A. I assure you a strictly money making venture Featuring artwork paying respects to the movies, Gremlins, Ghostbusters, and The Goonies. More honest work to follow.

Prayer to Mothra

2010-07-21T00:41:00.001-04:00

"If we were to call for help, over time, over sea, like a wave, you'd come"

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

This picture features Mothra (or Mosura) in her larval stage headed toward Tokyo Bay to answer a distress call by the Shobijin (small fairy twins who can communicate with Mothra telepathically). The title of the painting is part of Mothra's prayer or song the Twins sing to contact Mothra. Mothra often aids as an ally to Godzilla but more often an enemy and worthy adversary to the "King of Monsters"

A small piece for upcoming Brave New Worlds Comics Showcase "Turning Japanese" A tribute to Japanese pop culture, monsters and supermen. Put on in affiliation with The Autumn Society of Philadelphia. I had a tons of fun painting this, more then I thought I would, but really had more fun hanging out watching Godzilla movies for research, Hope fully soon I would like to a King Ghidorah piece!!

On Deck

2010-07-12T23:27:00.000-04:00

You Can Hear the Dead Moan

2010-07-12T22:46:00.004-04:00

"The Awakening"

acrylic

9" X 14"

Awakening pin up for upcoming Vol 2 of "The Awakening" written by Alex Tapalansky, and artwork by Alex Eckman Lawn. I was really honored that they let me contribute artwork to the next volume. I read the first volume twice already and cant wait to see what's in store for Park Falls. I wanted to go with a pulp detective kind of feel for the stories main character, or a cover of Creepy or Eerie magazine. I had to go off of what I knew from Vol 1, I knew so far that the zombies arent the rotting from the grave kind, and equipped with a powerful bite and enhanced strength due to possible chemicals from a closed plant. So thats why I added that Zombie chemical mist, and also as an ode to older Zombie movies. I posed for each one of the figures. My only regret is not including some of the architecture that is so prevalent throughout the book by Eckman-Lawn. So I guess this will be my first piece ever published in a book, so I cant tell you how excited I am, I hope it reproduces well. I'll post when it is released I believe it will be out October 20th 2010, In time for the Halloween season. Until then make sure you read volume 1 you wont regret it i promise.

Volume 2

pre order

buy Volume 1 here

Alex Eckman-Lawn

East Meets West proof

2010-07-12T20:47:00.002-04:00

Photos from East Meets West Show earlier this month from AXD Gallery on 10th and Locust Streets, Philadelphia, PA. Most excellent show with good turnout. photos. Heather Noonan

All Hands On Deck proof

2010-07-12T20:18:00.001-04:00

Pictures from the previous ASOP show "All Hands on Deck" at Chapterhouse Cafe and Gallery, I curated. Good turn out and great work from my friends!! One of the best ASOP shows so far and was glad to be a big part. Thanks to every one who came out. photos: Eric Braddock

From out the dreaded sea comes the six headed beast

2010-07-06T15:26:00.000-04:00

This Friday The Autumn Society of Philadelphia and Chapterhouse Cafe and Gallery present "All Hands on Deck" a showing of maritime art paying homage to the mighty sea.

Chapterhouse Cafe & Gallery
620 s. 9th st
Philadelphia, PA
between south and bainbridge st
917-373-5055

opening reception Friday July 9th 7PM - 10PM wine and food served

One of the great relationships of human existence has been the timeless waltz of mankind and the sea. This relationship and dance was no doubt born out of man's need for exploration and adventure with our planet earth's largest arena. Man has traveled it in search of foreign lands, hunted it for resources and gotten lost in its vast unknowns. Regardless of the time period or situation the sea has provided and has continued to fascinate its seekers. Throughout these interactions the artist has been close at hand. Acting as witness, documenter, megaphone and author to these timeless endeavors.

In July 2010, in America's birthplace of Philadelphia, 30 emerging young artist of diverse skill sets have enlisted their services in riding the waves of discovery in effort to provide new additions of pictures to provide visual dialogs of mankind's fascination with the sea.

words. Matt Cavanaugh

artists.

Julianna Lose
Peter Wonsowski
Joseph Game
Anthony Pedro
Kate Collins
Paul Palcko
April Milburn
Danielle Rizzolo
Alex Eckman-Lawn
Eric Braddock
Maryann Held
Pedro Delgado
Karen Hagen
Raymond Chase
Mike Wohlberg
Sam Heimer
Eamon Dougherty
Matt Cavanaugh
James Heimer
Tim Durning
Jeff Kilpatrick
Adrienne Langer
Brad Haubrich
Jeff DeSantis
Craig Parrillo
Reau
Thomas Lynch III

for those who don't know

The Autumn Society
Born from the winds off of Broad Street with a belly full of soft pretzels and a love for a drawn thought, a creative collective was born from the humble beginnings of Sam Heimer, Eamon Dougherty and Joseph Game called The Autumn Society. After some longs nights with plenty of red eyes, the collective was fully realized in September 2006. At first starting as think-tank for editorial illustration and comic art convention touring. The Autumn Society then went live via the World Wide Web later that year though the means of a group blog. The blog has since flourished and continues to be a base for illustration students and alumni members from the University of the Arts. At present The Autumn Society is a group of artists from and near the Philadelphia area, which includes Illustrators, Painters, Graphic Designers, Animators, Photographers, and Filmmakers. While styles and mediums vary, in this group an interest in storytelling, the apparition of imagination and distinctive thinking has always been key factors in this group’s cohesiveness as they ride the waves of the World Wide Web and elsewhere. The artist group has recently become a part of the touring convention scene of comics and zine related culture. As with every snowball effect, 2009 has brought greater new developments to the group including 8 gallery shows in and around Philadelphia. The 2009 shows provided huge turn outs of guest and has triggered online and print media support. The generous press has lead to more show offers including shows in California and in other nationwide galleries. As 2010 moves on, the group looks forward to launching new projects in the Philadelphia area and beyond.

http://www.myspace.com/chapterhouse
http://www.theautumnsociety.com/

I had the pleasure of assembling this group of artists and in coordination with Shannon from Chapterhouse putting this together, so it would mean a lot if you came out.

Pedro and DeSantis hold hammers

2010-07-01T23:12:00.000-04:00

Brought no artwork to the table on this one, but Jeff DeSantis I did the hanging for it so I guess that makes it post worthy, so drop by and see 80's toy inspired artworks by the ASOP brotherhood. yeah I know 80's this and 90's that. These shows are in the process of getting reworked, it seems and attendance and artist participation is down, shit even I didn't do one for this, first BNW show I copped out of. Remember the early ones, that's what BNW show saviors DeSantis and I are trying to bring back, so if anybody has any ideas for nerd friendly shows that may spark some more interest drop me a line. Come by any way if your around and see my eye leveling, hammer swinging, number coordinating skills.

More Clowntastrophe

2010-06-22T11:47:00.001-04:00

Shaman

acrylic on canvas circus punk, rope, wild turkey feathers

about 14" X 5.5" at base, with feathers 21" X 5.5"

Here's what I came up with for this years Clowntastrophe. I figured when there were really circus punks at circuses people would want to knock down things they were afraid up like freaks and things they thought were evil. Originally I wanted this to sort of look like a Polynesian cannibal but in the end wound up looking like a magic man from India, so either way it works for me. I made him blind so he can easily see into the spirit world, and dressed him up with turkey feathers and other things lying around the house. Below is some info about the show stolen from emails i received, should be a fun event. Ill be selling this pretty cheap so it doesn't make its way back to my house.

I would like to invite you to attend Clowntastrophe Art Show 2010!

This is the 5th year Psydde Delicious (Delicious Boutique) and I have worked together to create these art shows. In case you are not familiar with the event- there is art and entertainment in the form of music, and performance, friends, family and new acquaintances.

We are doing things a little bit differently this year....

This years main event will be held at the Delicious Sideshow - a new "only for the guys" satellite store of Delicious Boutique located at the Piazza in Northern Liberties. (There will be also art and HUGE SAVINGS at the Liberties Walk Location.)

Myself(Paul Palcko), Bird Reynolds, and Monique Ligons will display paintings of "Sideshow" personalities at the "Sideshow" location.

As if that is not enough, there are about 30 additional artists, who have painted carnival "knock down" dolls, AKA "circus punks". (The dolls are amazing so far!)

We have special performances by Pavvel the accordion player, magic by TrickZone, Model and Mingle with ladies of Delicious Corsets, AND members of The Olde City Sideshow!!! This is going to be crazy.

Some other venues that are also on the Piazza at Schmidt's will be holding their own event, so be sure to have a look around:
Jinxed, Toothless Cat Gallery, Amberella, Creep Records and TrickZone.

We would also like to thank Philadelphia Weekly for sponsoring the event this year. Look for our Ads in the PW paper and online!

*********************************************************************************************************
Huge Savings on store merchandise at Delicious Boutique and Delicous Sideshow
ONLY during the hours of the event! If you want to dress to impress, this is where to get your clothes!
*********************************************************************************************************

Who, what, when, where...

Clowntastrophe! Art Show
Over 30 artists, and performers-free entertainment!

Saturday, June 26th. 6-10pm
Delicious Sideshow (on the piazza)
2nd St and Germantown Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19123

Directions:
http://www.atthepiazza.com/find-the-piazza.html

Take care,
Thanks for reading
Please forward to anyone you would like to invite!

Paul
www.paulpalcko.com

Clowntastrophe on Facebook

Philadelphia Weekly

Art all day and night!
Paintings of "Sideshow" personalities by Paul, Monique, Bird!
Hand painted carnival knock-down dolls by many artists!
Art events all around the Piazza are happening the same day/night (Jinxed/Toothless Cat, Amberella!) We're all friends here!!

6-8pm-Welcoming accordion music by Pavvel.
8pm-Performance by Olde City Sideshow.
9pm-Performance by the band Mischief Brew.

Mammal Mondays 2.5

2010-06-22T11:10:00.001-04:00

Just showing I tried, a pretty boring post, Damn, nothing much to show for MM this week, managed a mediocre sketch before passing out. Last weeks MM kinda sucked too, Ill try harder next week promise, too hot to sit here, summer time is miserable for getting work done. To the smut king who posts Chinese porn links in the comments of everything I post I'm working really hard to figure out who you are so I can kill you.

Mammal Mondays II

2010-06-14T23:40:00.000-04:00

untitled

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

This weeks Mammal Monday subject came to me in a dream. I dreamt I joined up with a Reindeer herd. After a couple of years my hair had grown long and shaggy, I don't remember if I had grown antlers or not. My friend had found me and called out to me, I ran up to her and recognized her scent. I don't remember if I stayed with my new family or returned to civilization. I hope I didn't.

I think I'll keep a look out for signs I'm givin like that, as to what I'm gonna do with these each week.

Mammal Mondays I

2010-06-08T01:08:00.003-04:00

untitled

8"X10"

acrylic on panel

So every Monday after I come home from work dragging my arms like a gorilla I'm going to bang out a new animal related drawing, painting, sketch, whatever. Just going to try new stuff and force my self to do new work when I don't want to the most. Well see how long this lasts. I got the idea from bonerfied computer painter and pal Reau, and his comic inspired Thor Thursdays, you should check i out pretty epic stuff. I'm going to try to keep these fresh quick and painterly. So keep checking back.

Inspired by some thing I read the other day about pigs in the Americas. Europeans who brought over pigs thought it was easier to release pigs into the woods and let them take care of themselves instead of tending to them. When they would grow big and fat in the spring they would have food to eat the enjoyment of a proper hunt for leisure so it was win win. Pigs are smart and a few would elude hunters and survive, multiplying and reverting to a primitive form deep in the forests. Tusks grew large, hair became long and wiry, and a brutal attitude developed. They could easily disembowel hunting dogs and put a serious hurting on a human. Native Americans who saw most of their traditional game disappearing were especially thrilled by this new challenging beast to hunt.

All you pagans ever needed

2010-06-06T20:47:00.001-04:00

The second installment for the East Meets West show at AxD. This would be the eastern part. A 19th century Japanese merchant ship. I'm pretty pleased with both pieces for this show and hope they go over well. I went back into Strength for the Hunt and that's even looking better then before. Can't rescan and show because it was already framed but thanks to Christian Patchell who gave me some advice over at the Cartoonist Society and helped me improve it. Super busy and hopefully will be posting almost every day. Up next. *Mammal Animal Mondays, more to be explained next post and Clowntastrophe show.

"On the Might of Fūjin's winds"

acrylic on panel

11"X14"

*"Fūjin is the Japanese god of the wind and one of the eldest Shinto gods. He is said to have been present at the creation of the world and when he first let the winds out of his bag, they cleared the morning mists and filled the Gate between heaven and earth so the sun shone. He is portrayed as a terrifying dark demon, resembling a red headed black humanoid wearing a leopard skin, carrying a large bag of winds on his shoulders."
I gave him a small portrait at the bottom right.

East Meets West Show AxD Gallery

2010-06-06T08:11:00.002-04:00

The Autumn Society of Philadelphia and AxD Gallery present East Meets East Opens with reception on Friday, June 11, from 5 to 8 p.m.

The wildly imaginative art and culture of Japan has been a steady influence on American society since before WWII, but the popular cultures of both societies have been recursively influencing each another in the decades following the Allied occupation. A new group exhibition at AxD Gallery examines how thoroughly saturated and integrated the pop cultures of the Far East and the East Coast have become.

East Meets East features illustrations in a variety of mediums and visual languages, from traditional paintings to digital drawings. Past exhibitions curated by The Autumn Society of Philadelphia have focused on very specific niches of pop culture, specifically in the worlds of comic art and entertainment. With East Meets East, Autumn Society members are developing a visual commentary on the impact of Japanese pop culture on our contemporary American culture, and vice versa.

The Autumn Society of Philadelphia was formed in 2006 as a think tank and networking organization for University of the Arts illustration graduates. The Autumn Society has been curating member exhibitions in Philadelphia and nationwide since 2008.

East Meets East will feature new works by ten Autumn Society artists:

Jude Buffum

Matt Cavanaugh

Ray Chase

Eamon Doughtery

Alex Eckman-Lawn

Joseph Game

Maryann Held

Anthony Pedro

Jaclyn Sinquett

Tom Whalen

East Meets East continues through July 3, 2010.

(We will also have some rad Japanese tunes, Pocky, snacks, beer, and good fun!)

words: Matt Cavanaugh

The Autumn Society http://www.theautumnsociety.com/

AxD http://www.a-x-d.com/

Date:	Friday, June 11, 2010
Time:	5:00pm - 9:00pm
Location:	AxD gallery
Street:	265 South 10th Street (between Locust and Spruce Streets)

poster: Tom Whalen

photos: AxD Gallery

Clowns

2010-06-04T10:15:00.002-04:00

Something different I got myself involved in. Below is an ad in Philly Weekly, I'll be one of those mentioned (un-mentioned) artists making one of these "circus punks" for show. More info coming weeks. Looking forward to it, it should be interesting and a good time. Thanks to Paul Palcko for the invite. I'll have to put my long standing fear of clowns aside for this. Ask my mother how I hid under a table for my entire cousins birthday party because their was a clown.

CLOWNTASTROPHE

Delicious Boutique & the new Delicious Sideshow are proud to present the return of Clowntastrophe, an exhibition of the paintings of Paul Palcko, Bird Reynolds, and Monique Ligons

on June 26th, 2010, from 6pm -10pm.

The exhibition will begin at Delicious Sideshow on the Piazza along with specials and entertainment at other neighboring Piazza locations. The original Delicious Boutique & Corseterie located on Liberties Walk will be displaying additional works by the featured artists and offering an unprecedented 25% off all store merchandise during the four hours of the event.

This June marks the 5th year of collaboration between Palcko and Delicious in a room full of pent up clown energy! The "Clowntastrophe" art event was created in 2006 by painter PaulPalcko and fashion icon PsyddeDelicious, stemming from their mutual love of clowns. The shows are now held annually at Delicious Boutique in Philadelphia, PA. "Clowntastrophe" is about the Circus and Sideshow tradition. Part art show/ part history lesson, the art is visual interpretation of the historic aspects of the American traveling shows, the gritty dirt roads...and some distorted memories involving clowns. The concepts are also a multi-layered social commentary. "I see life as a circus, and all of us performers," explains Palcko.

For this the 5th year be prepared for double the circus as Clowntastrophe presents both Sideshow themed paintings by Palcko, Reynolds, and Ligons, and additionally clown themed "circus punks" by over 30 local and national artists. Circus Punks were traditionally hand painted dolls used by in carnival "knock down games"; balls were thrown to knock down the these sometimes crudely painted punks and win a prize. The Clowntastrophy punks are all lovingly made of wood backboards, canvas, and stuffing. They stand 13 inches tall, and are created by a talented crew of artists each wiht their own unique vision of clown love. Artists involved include Dave Glass, Jessica S, Den Cobb, Troy Timpel, etc...

Entertainment for the evening includes Pavel The Accordion Player, special appearances by members of The Old City Sideshow, magic from Trick Zone, and a dose of Delicious Corseted Clowns!

Highlights of years past include the frightening antics of Mr. Clown, sideshow performances of Barry Silver, and renegade freelance clown hi-jinx....

UHH HUH HUH HUH Don't Laugh C'Mon Butthead

2010-06-03T23:16:00.006-04:00

Busted! caught free loadin new issue of MADD mag!

the wall preview at Brave New Worlds photo: Jeff DeSantis XXX

Whooaaa!! Friday night at Brave New Worlds Comics The Autumn Society presents "The 90's Show." Take a break from watching "My So Called Life" and " MTV Sports" and head out to Old City for a homage to some 90's related artworks. Put on your crappiest flannel shirt and look like you don't give a shit, pump up Pearl Jam borrow money from your uncle Frank or Dana, what ever you have to do, and come through after the mall. What I've seen rolling in so far, Ren and Stimpy, Rocko's Modern Life, Real Monsters, Men at Work, Carl Winslow watching tv w Muppet Babies, The Critic, The Maxx, Fresh Prince, Beavis and Butthead, Pete and Pete, EEk the Cat. I was there for the 90's and this show pretty much covers all the bases. Pretty Intense.

-Cousin Cody Lambert

Those who surived the nuclear fire known as Judgment Day only lived to face a new nightmare...

2010-06-02T20:18:00.004-04:00

The war against the machines

"It's Judgment Day"

acrylic on panel

8"X10"

New piece for "The 90's Show"' brought to you by The Autumn Society of Illustration at Brave New Worlds Comics Friday June night June 4th. Serving up a selection of 90's pop tributes everything from Ren and Stimpy to Men at Work. What am I bringing to the table? A T-800 endoskeleton. Terminator 2 (1992) was like a third parent parent to me. I can remember I watched it 12 hours a day for 3 months one summer. Still stands as one of my favorites of all times. I feel like this painting does not do the movie justice what so ever. Hopefully I will have the chance to try my hand at another soon. R.I.P Stan Winston.

To save time I tried a lil something new. I tried to glue my sketch directly on the panel and then seal it. It worked, and I didn't have to redraw, but when it got wet it caused the sketch to wrinkle making a shriveled effect, which you can see. I made my deadline but I don't think I'll try this again. Sometimes It's better to do the things the long way you know will work, then to try to cut corners.

I's super hot and my body is rotting away from poison Sumac the likes you have never seen. Even the doctor was amazed. My arm looks like a piece a piece of Pizza Hut Pizza, So sitting down to paint is a struggle. I'll have my other half for the East Meets West Show up within the next few days.

Eulogy

2010-05-21T17:18:00.002-04:00

I pulled the plug on my website that has hung in there for an un-updated 3 years. Ill be sticking with this for the time being, mostly cause its free and super easy to update. One day a legit site may see the light of day but for now keep checking here. If you have a link to that site I ask you to please to re link it here. Thanks

The Desolete Drums provide the Strength for the Hunt

2010-05-19T01:01:00.002-04:00

First of two for upcoming group show at A+D Gallery Philadelphia "East meets West" this is the West Part I'm not sure whats going to be the eastern counterpart, but I have a week to figure that out and finish it. Damn. Also gotta get going on a piece for a 90's show @ Brave New Worlds first week of June. Three shows this June. Ill be posting info and promos soon.

Strength for the Hunt

acrylic on panel

11"14"

Icons

2010-05-10T21:08:00.001-04:00

Frank Frazetta passed away today of a stroke at the age of 82, he was an art legend and inspired generations of artists, including myself. My mother gave me a Frazetta book for Christmas and I was instantly a fan. Few could succeed in bringing fantasy subjects to life as he could without making them look corny. The craziest shit about him is he would always say he never used reference, and he handled human anatomy so brilliantly and seemed like he could do it effortlessly. He was a true illustrator, but his paintings always stood strong with no words, the mood was so thick and eerie, you could always stare at a Frazetta and just come up with your own story just by looking at the picture. The outpouring around the net as news of his death spreads is so intense, just be that alone you can see how many people his work has touched. It seems a lot of my influences are dying off, and its sad when some one like Frank dies because they will never again create a new piece that we can enjoy and marvel at. He left behind a legacy that few will ever top, and I know when he passed, an ice giant moved a boulder and revealed an entrance to the art Valhalla where he will be seated amongst the art gods.

Full Set Of Dishes

2010-05-04T21:41:00.002-04:00

I know this is a bit last minute but this Friday I have a solo show at ESTETIKS main st in Doylestown PA outside Philly a first Friday show featuring me. Outside Philly Doylestown has a suprisingly big art scene. I know a lot of PCS brothers are having shows in Philly but you should find your way out that way stop by and hang out for a while should be a beautiful spring evening with lots going on. Located at 5 South Main Street in Doylestown free admission. Starts at 6PM and ends at 10PM. They have lots of clothes art and NIKES!! A match made in heaven. Should have at least 10 originals and hoping to have a good amount of exclusive prints.

PEEP IT!!

http://www.myspace.com/estetiks

p.s. thank you Rachael Kratzer for hauling me and my deadbeat ass all the way out there with all of my stuff.

Whale Killer

2010-04-26T20:29:00.000-04:00

Megalodon Tooth Sketch (actual size)

acrylic on panel

5"X7"

A small acrylic sketch of a tooth of the largest Shark ever to stalk the seas. Dying about 2 mya the Megalodon, roamed the seas feeding on whales and other large sea mammals. Attacking from below ramming the chest and destroying vital organs leaving giants helpless. This would be one of 320 replaceable teeth. They would be around 66 feet and 47 metric tons.

Hopefully soon I can get a piece done showing the full body.

Zoo Krew

2010-04-26T17:09:00.000-04:00

Today work was rained out due to miserable spring weather. I was free to roam about the zoo and do some sketches during a break in the rain. I pretty much had the place to myself, most of the animals were in or acting pretty agitated due to the storm and it was difficult capturing them while they paced or stayed in their dens out of sight but I managed to nab a few quick ones. I'll be posting more through out the summer. The White Rhino was out, along with the two female polar bears and Ben the Asiatic Black Bear

Rancho la Brea

2010-04-25T21:11:00.006-04:00

"To Live and Die in L.A."

acrylic on panel

11" X 14"

Downtown Los Angeles, the last Ice Age. Sometimes disguised by a thin layer of water, leaves or other debris, asphalt seeps through the ground from deep within the earth under southern California. Unsuspecting large grazing animals searching for a drink or stumbling too near would become trapped, like flies to fly paper. A few inches of asphalt would be able to hold an animal as large a Mammoth or Mastodon (pictured). The animals would die from dehydration or exposure. The stench of the dead would attract scavengers and predators from miles around, who would also become trapped. For every one herbivore six predator remains have been found. Most Commonly the Dire Wolf (pictured).

For the upcoming Damaged Goods Show @ Wawapalooza

Identity at Goldmine Unltd.

2010-04-12T21:05:00.003-04:00

Identity Show

The Anchor Collection @ Goldmine

opening reception Sat April 17th 8 PM

I submitted a few photos to Goldmine for their photo show "Identity" and to my pleasant surprise two were selected. Hope to see you in Manyunk Sat night.

"Wish I asked your number"

B/W darkroom process

"It was Nice"

B/W darkroom process

Killafornia & KillScreen Magazine Debut

2010-04-09T19:01:00.005-04:00

Kill Screen Mag Debut

A short video HERE from the Autumn Society of Philadelphia's Adventure time tribute show @ Cartoon Network, you can catch a glimpse of mine for about .00005666th of a second, but a good chance to see a good amount of ASOP members contributions. Looks like a bunch of CN employees munching out and taking in some art.

Also issue number 0 of Killscreen Magazine is out featuring an illustration of mine has just been released, The Magazine itself is not sold in stores I believe but you can cop a subscription by visiting HERE Apparently I will be contributing more work to this magazine in the future I look forward to getting my copy soon. It seems like it will be a video game magazine focused at a more mature gaming audience and the writers and editor all seem very intelligent. vid of the editor Jamin Brophy discussing race in video games, very interesting. So just by this you can kind of see where these guys heads are at. So you will definitely find more then cheat codes and reviews in this mag. So def BUY so they money to pay me for artwork!!!!

End of Days

2010-03-31T02:57:00.007-04:00

Last of the Giant Deer

acrylic on panel

12"X16"

Some where in Northern Europe 10,000 years ago. The Climate was changing, food was becoming scarce, and worst of all hungry wolves, humans, and lions roamed in hunting packs. Unable to seek refuge in the forests because of those enormous 10ft antlers the largest deer the earth would ever see stood at the edge of extinction. A snow began to fall.

revision

I sent a copy of this over to James Gurney (Dinotopia books, National Geographic) one of the few living artists whose work I respect these days and humbly sought his professional opinion on what I had done right and could have done better. He responded with the following advice.

Hi, Anthony,
Thanks for your kind words. That's a really solid piece--good drawing and proportion, strong silhouette, and the anatomy looks rock-solid. I like the way you used foreshortening on two of the animals. The painting looks efficient and dynamic without attracting attention to itself.

Perhaps the color needs a lift somehow, but I'm not sure what I'd do with it. Maybe gradate the sky, bringing it toward relative light and warm in the distance. Having warm and cool going on in the sky might tie it together a bit more.

But this is a quibble. You did a super job, and it shows a lot of study and experience.

With all the best wishes,
James Gurney

I took his advice by adding warmth to the sky, and wound up with a piece that I am more pleased with then before. It really did tie the picture together, and am glad I had the courage to ask his opinion. Please visit Mr Gurney's blog where you will be sure to find a wealth of information and an all around awesome dude.

It Was A Time of High Adventure

2010-03-07T23:14:00.002-05:00

A pal of mine and also Autumn Society of Philadelphia high priest Joe "Chogrin" Game currently works out in CA at Cartoon Network and is involved in a promising up and coming animated show "Adventure Time." The show involves two characters, a boy named Finn and his dog friend Jake, and is based around around their adventures. As a tribute to this upstart he had asked members to contribute a piece featuring a character or characters from the show, which will lead to an art book for the tv show, and possible gallery show at Cartoon Network. So for all the hard work he does for the ASOP I decided to oblige him with a small piece of one of the shows antagonists " The Ice King."

"The Ice King Cometh"

acrylic on panel

8"X10"

As Worlds Collide

2010-03-06T09:22:00.004-05:00

first part of summer gallery line up. more info to come.

Sand People Ride in Single File to Hide Thier Numbers

2010-03-03T19:54:00.003-05:00

"Raiders Emerge from the wastes after the twin suns set to scavenge or steal from the edges of settlement zones" Star Wars Visual Dictionary

Tatooine Raider acrylic on panel 9"X12"

Sharks Keep Moving

2010-02-03T22:31:00.010-05:00

The Great Hammerhead

acrylic on panel 8"X10"

no more sharks for a lil bit. upcoming- Cartoon Network, Comic Book Pin Ups, East meets West Show.

First Light Sharks Come Cruising

2010-01-29T00:16:00.003-05:00

Came down to the wire on getting this done. 2nd of two to be sent out to CO for next weeks show (see last post) 2nd biggest painting Ive ever done. Hope they dig it out there.

Little about the scene had changed since the great fish swam in the age of reptiles

acrylic on panel 18" X 24"